Furnace repair costs can be high but they’re often a necessity. Keeping your furnace in good working condition will not only keep you warm throughout the winter but it will also save you money on energy bills. If you think your furnace is not working properly there are several signs that it is time to call in a professional. Some of the most common problems with furnaces include clogged filters, pilot or ignition issues, motor problems and ductwork issues. Identifying these issues early will help you avoid costly repairs and potential safety hazards.

Often overlooked, dirty air filters can be the most common reason a furnace stops working efficiently. Dirty filters restrict airflow and can cause the heat exchanger to overheat and shut off the unit. You can check a filter to see if it’s time to change it by holding it up to the light. If no light shines through, it is clogged and needs to be changed.

Another common problem is a faulty thermostat. If the thermostat isn’t properly calibrated it may be indicating that the home is too warm or cold, which can lead to the furnace running continuously and causing overheating and expensive electric bills. A simple solution is to make sure the batteries in the thermostat are new and that the date and time on the display is set correctly. If these fixes don’t work, it’s time to call in a professional to replace the thermostat.

Dirty ductwork can also prevent the flow of hot air to your home’s rooms. This is a simple fix and can be done by removing any debris from the ductwork and vacuuming it regularly to prevent dust build up. In addition, you should make sure that furniture and other items aren’t blocking the vents. Finally, you should keep a few feet of space around the furnace to prevent dust build up and flammable materials from being stored near it.

A gas leak is one of the most dangerous and serious furnace issues. It can cause fires, damage to the house and pose a health hazard for your family members. The easiest way to detect a gas leak is to look at the pilot light on your furnace. The pilot light should be blue and if it is yellow this indicates that the pilot is overheating and producing too much carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.

While a heating system can last a long time, none of them run forever and your furnace will eventually need to be repaired. Watching for these common problems will ensure that you don’t encounter any unpleasant surprises when it comes to getting your furnace ready for the winter. Choosing a reputable and experienced technician will save you money on heating bills, increase your comfort and protect your home. You can find a furnace technician that is right for you by visiting a local service database. They’ll provide you with a list of top rated contractors and their pricing for a variety of repairs.